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The UK’s top Brexit negotiator David Frost and his EU counterpart Michel Barnier have been locked in discussions over the weekend in Brussels. Outstanding issues on fisheries, state aid subsidies and the so-called “level playing field” in competition remained at the forefront of the talks.
With less than two months to go to the official end of the Brexit transition period, it is understood that there has been a significant decline in access to UK waters.
The prime minister had promised to abandon the EU’s Common Fisheries Policy and regain control of UK waters, but it is believed that European vessels will now be able to fish in UK territories next year.
Britain has pushed for fishing quotas to be negotiated annually, but so far the EU has rejected this proposal and is seeking more concrete guarantees on fishing in UK waters.
READ MORE: Farage prepares to relaunch Brexit Party to fight coronavirus lockdown
In an attempt to secure a broader trade deal, it is understood that more precise details on quotas could be delayed to a later date, allowing EU fishermen to continue looting UK fishing waters from 1 January 2021.
French President Emmanuel Macron has been pressuring Barnier to abandon a deal if there is no deal on fishing.
French Europe Minister Clement Beaune has said that fishing is “equally important to us, France and the UK, the EU and the UK.”
He added: “Let’s try to find a solution that respects both interests.
“I think it is possible.”
The Brexit talks between Frost and Barnier will resume today in the Belgian capital.
Follow Express.co.uk for live Brexit updates:
8.20am update: Farage says he will ‘closely follow ‘Brexit amid the launch of Reform UK
Nigel Farage will not take his eyes off trade negotiations with the EU as he prepares to end the Brexit Party and launch an anti-blockade movement called Reform UK.
Mr. Farage said: “As we promised, we are closely monitoring the Government’s trade negotiations with the EU to ensure a proper Brexit.
“Further reform in many other areas is also vital to the future of our nation.”
8.07am update: Farage is ready to rename the Brexit Party
Nigel Farage, the leader of the Brexit Party, has asked the Election Commission to change its name to Reform UK.
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